Photo Credit: USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
The Pittsburgh Steelers are expected to make changes to their return game after rookie running back Kaleb Johnson committed a costly error in Sunday’s 31-17 loss to the Seattle Seahawks. Head coach Mike Tomlin confirmed Tuesday that Johnson will “probably not” handle kickoffs in Week 3.
The Costly Mistake
With the Steelers trailing in the fourth quarter, Johnson misjudged a kickoff from Seattle’s Jason Myers, letting the ball bounce over his head and into the end zone. Under the NFL’s new kickoff rules, any kick that lands between the goal line and 20-yard line and rolls into the end zone must be returned or downed.
Instead, Seattle rookie George Holani pounced on the live ball for a touchdown, effectively sealing the win.
“I just made a mistake,” Johnson admitted afterward. “Got to stick to it, move on, and just continue to get better every day.”
Tomlin’s Message of Accountability
Tomlin stressed that while Johnson will likely be pulled from return duties, he still has faith in the rookie’s long-term potential.
“I’m certainly going to give him an opportunity to work his way back from that,” Tomlin said. “I believe in his talent. He’s a sharp young man, he’s a hard worker. But he has to display that with his daily work … it’s about how you move forward in terms of your work, the level of detail, and the consistency of it.”
The Steelers could turn to Kenneth Gainwell, Roman Wilson, or practice squad back Trey Sermon as return options moving forward.
Rocky Start to Rookie Season
A third-round pick out of Iowa, Johnson entered the season expected to contribute immediately after Najee Harris’ departure. So far, however, his rookie campaign has been underwhelming.
Johnson has just two carries across two games for a combined -1 rushing yard, while fellow back Jaylen Warren has emerged as the clear feature runner. Against Seattle, Warren handled 14 carries for 48 yards and added four catches for 86 yards, including a 65-yard reception.
“Jaylen’s a great player,” quarterback Aaron Rodgers said. “Every time he touches it, something good happens.”
Steelers Battling Injuries Elsewhere
The special teams shakeup comes as the Steelers deal with several defensive injuries. Edge rusher Alex Highsmith and defensive lineman Isaiahh Loudermilk are out for Week 3 with ankle sprains. Safety DeShon Elliott, corner Joey Porter Jr., and linebacker Derrick Harmon are all questionable.
Tomlin acknowledged the absences hampered Pittsburgh’s defensive scheme against Seattle, which racked up 395 yards.
“Our defense wore down as the game went on,” Tomlin said. “Our lines got a little thin at various points, and we weren’t as good as I’d like in terms of midstream adjusting.”
What’s Next
The Steelers will look to regroup as they prepare for the New England Patriots in Week 3. Johnson, meanwhile, has the chance to earn back his coach’s trust, but for now, his role on special teams is in jeopardy — the latest setback in what has been a frustrating start to his rookie season.
More must-reads:
Robinson, Falcons Defense Power First Win of Season vs. Vikings
49ers to Start Mac Jones as Purdy Faces Injury Setback
